Although Pennsylvania is home to plenty of beautiful places to hike and camp, it’s also home to a number of bugs, including deer ticks, which transmit Lyme disease.

“Pennsylvania is one of the leading states in the U.S. for Lyme disease. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease and how you can prevent tick bites,” says Mark Knouse, MD, with LVPG Infectious Diseases.

Lyme disease basics

Dr. Knouse says there are a few things you should know about Lyme disease as you start planning your summer adventures.

1. You don’t have to be in the woods to get a tick bite. It’s a misconception that you have to be in a wooded area to get Lyme disease. Most people contract Lyme disease within just 100 yards of their house.

2. Not everyone with Lyme disease has a bull’s-eye rash. A bull’s-eye rash is the most well-known symptom associated with Lyme disease, but it’s not always present. Up to 30 percent of those with Lyme disease never get the rash.

3. Symptoms of Lyme disease can be similar to other conditions. Some doctors refer to Lyme disease as the great imitator because it shares symptoms with several conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and lupus.

4. Diagnosing Lyme disease can be tricky. Because it mimics other conditions, Lyme disease can be difficult to diagnose. The best method is through a two-step blood test, which looks for antibodies made by the body in response to infection.

5. Treatment is available for Lyme disease. The good news is that Lyme disease is highly treatable, especially if caught early. Treatment in early stages is a simple 10- to 14-day course of oral antibiotics.

Reducing your risk for Lyme disease

“If you are going to be in a wooded area or an area with high grass, cover up as much skin as possible and use an insect repellant with DEET.

You also should thoroughly check your clothing, yourself and your children for ticks after coming indoors,” says Dr. Knouse.

If you do find a tick on yourself or children, remove it carefully as soon as possible with tweezers. Then dispose of it by putting it in rubbing alcohol or flushing it down the toilet.

Apply antiseptic to the bite area and watch for any symptoms of Lyme disease.

If you find what appears to be an engorged deer tick that was attached to you at least 48 hours, a single dose of doxycycline may be an option. The drug can help prevent Lyme disease in such situations, but you would need to discuss usage first with your primary care doctor or clinician.

To make a primary care appointment, call 888-402-LVHN (5846).